At TourKyiv.com, we believe that travel is about more than just seeing landmarks; it is about connecting with a culture, its people, and its values. Ukraine remains a country of incredible hospitality, but it is also a country defending its existence.
A recent incident at the border serves as a powerful reminder that visiting Ukraine comes with a responsibility to respect the nation and its laws.
The Incident: A Contradiction at the Border
On January 6, 2026, a 53-year-old Italian national named Rocco attempted to enter Ukraine via the Chop border crossing. Interestingly, he arrived wearing a vyshyvanka (a traditional Ukrainian embroidered shirt) and was traveling to his own wedding in Ukraine.
However, his actions and words told a different story. According to fellow passengers, including Daria Melnychenko – whose social media post on Threads went viral – the man began:
- Openly praising Vladimir Putin and justifying Russian aggression.
- Hurling insults at the Ukrainian government and people.
- Using aggressive Nazi slogans and self-identifying as a “fascist.”
The Result: A Three-Year Ban
Thanks to the vigilance of Daria and the swift action of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine, Rocco was denied entry. After an investigation confirmed he held views justifying armed aggression against Ukraine – a violation of national legislation – he was issued a three-year ban from entering the country.
“In fact, we are dealing with a person who holds pro-Russian views and justifies Russian aggression. This is a violation of Ukrainian law.” — Andrii Demchenko, Spokesperson of the State Border Guard Service.
What This Means for Our Guests
Ukraine is a democratic nation that values free speech, but during a time of war, justifying the genocide of our people and the invasion of our territory is not a “political opinion” – it is a security threat and a violation of the law.
To ensure your trip to Kyiv is smooth and welcoming, here is a quick guide on navigating the current environment with respect:
| DO | DON’T |
| Respect Local Laws: Understand that justifying Russian aggression is a legal offense in Ukraine. | Disrespect the Defense: Avoid disparaging the efforts of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. |
| Wear the Vyshyvanka with Pride: We love seeing guests embrace our culture! | Use Symbols Superficially: Don’t wear national symbols if your intent is to provoke or mock. |
| Listen to Locals: Engage with Ukrainians to learn about their experiences and the reality of the war. | Repeat Propaganda: Bringing pro-war rhetoric into a country being bombed is both dangerous and offensive. |
Our Commitment to You
At TourKyiv.com, we are proud of our country’s resilience. We welcome tourists from all over the world who come with an open heart and a respect for our sovereignty.
The story of the “Italian at the border” is a rare exception, but it highlights a vital truth: Ukraine is a land of dignity. When you visit us, you aren’t just a tourist; you are a witness to history.
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